5.0(1 Reviews)Marathon 4 HR Reef Fishing Adventure
5.0(1 reviews)
Private Trip
Wrecks/Reefs Fishing
Fourhour reef fishing adventure targeting multiple snapper and grouper speciesSmall group experience with maximum six guests aboard Harmony Charters vesselActive reefs near Marathon provide consistent action for all skill levels
When you want solid reef action without burning a whole day, this 4-hour Marathon fishing trip hits the sweet spot. We're talking about productive reefs loaded with hungry fish, beautiful Florida Keys scenery, and enough time to fill your cooler without wearing yourself out. Captain Arthur knows these waters like his backyard, and he'll put you on fish whether you're a weekend warrior or someone who can barely tell a rod from a reel. The reefs around Marathon are some of the most consistent producers in the Keys, and with a 6-person max, you'll have plenty of room to fish without getting tangled up in someone else's line.
You'll start your morning heading out to Marathon's prime reef structures where the fish stack up year-round. These aren't the tourist traps - we're hitting the spots where locals go when they want dinner on the table. The boat's equipped with everything you need: quality rods, reels, tackle, bait, and a captain who knows exactly where to drop the hook. Expect a relaxed vibe with plenty of action. The reefs here sit in 20 to 40 feet of water, making them perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers. You'll be bottom fishing most of the trip, but don't be surprised if we mix in some drift fishing when the current's right. The marine life around these structures is incredible - it's like fishing in a natural aquarium where something's always biting.
We'll be running mostly bottom rigs with circle hooks and natural baits like shrimp, ballyhoo, and pilchards. The key to reef fishing success is reading the current and putting your bait right where the fish are feeding. Captain Arthur will have you anchored up on productive spots, but we'll also do some drift fishing when the wind and current line up just right. You'll learn how to feel the difference between a fish bite and just dragging bottom - it's a skill that comes quick once you get the hang of it. We keep plenty of different weight sizes on board because these reefs can be finicky, and sometimes moving from a 2-ounce sinker to a 4-ounce makes all the difference. The tackle's sized right for the fish we're targeting, strong enough to pull grouper out of the rocks but not so heavy that you can't feel a snapper picking at your bait.
"Our original charter was canceled due to winds, but Harmony Charters saved the day! With a bigger boat, they agreed to take us out last minute, and it turned out to be the only day we could fish with our friends. Despite the challenging weather, Captain Arthur had us on fish the entire morning. Thanks to the crew for turning what could've been a disappointing day into an amazing trip! We really appreciated the great experience!" - Alexis
Crevalle Jack are the bulldogs of the reef, and when one grabs your bait, you'll know it immediately. These fish hit hard and fight harder, often making multiple runs that'll test your drag system. They're most active during the warmer months and love to cruise the reef edges looking for baitfish. What makes jacks so fun is their unpredictability - they might slam your bait the second it hits bottom, or they might follow it up from the depths and nail it just as you're about to pull it out of the water. They're not the prettiest fish in the cooler, but they're fantastic eating when prepared right, and the fight they give you is worth every minute.
Mutton Snapper are the prize fish of these reefs, and for good reason. These beautiful fish with their distinctive black spot and reddish fins are some of the best eating you'll find in Florida waters. They're smart, though - muttonfish have seen every trick in the book, so you need fresh bait and a gentle touch. They'll often pick at your offering before committing, and setting the hook too early will leave you empty-handed. The best mutton fishing happens during the summer months, particularly around the full moon when they're spawning. A nice mutton snapper in the 5 to 10-pound range will give you a strong, steady fight and provide some of the finest table fare in the Keys.
Lane Snapper might be smaller than their mutton cousins, but they make up for it with numbers and attitude. These colorful little fighters are perfect for keeping kids and beginners engaged because they bite consistently and fight well for their size. You'll recognize them by their yellow and pink stripes and that classic snapper profile. Lane snappers are year-round residents on Marathon's reefs, and they're not nearly as picky as other snapper species. They'll hit live shrimp, cut bait, or small jigs with equal enthusiasm. While they typically run 1 to 3 pounds, they're excellent in fish tacos or fried whole, and catching a mess of them is always a good time.
Black Grouper are the heavyweights of this fishing adventure, and landing one is always a battle. These fish live in the rockiest, nastiest bottom structure they can find, and when hooked, their first instinct is to head straight back to their cave. You've got to turn them quick and keep steady pressure, or you'll be retying your rig. Black grouper are ambush predators that can inhale a bait faster than you can blink, so stay alert when your sinker hits bottom. The regulations on grouper change seasonally, so we'll make sure you know what's legal to keep. When they're in season and you land a keeper, you're looking at some of the finest fish dinner you'll ever have. They prefer cooler months and deeper structure, making them a real trophy when everything comes together.
This Marathon reef fishing trip delivers exactly what serious anglers want: consistent action, quality
Get ready to fish Marathon's productive reefs aboard our beautifully restored 35' Stryker sportfishing boat. Twin 220 HP Cummins engines power this classic vessel through offshore waters where Jack Crevalle, Black Grouper, and multiple snapper species call home. With room for up to 6 anglers, you'll have plenty of space to work the rails while staying comfortable with onboard A/C, a full kitchen, and even a bed for anyone needing a break between bites. The fish finder and GPS keep us on the hottest spots, while the icebox and refrigerator ensure your catch stays fresh and your drinks stay cold. Whether you're battling a stubborn grouper off the bottom or watching yellowtail snappers light up the sonar, this boat gives you everything needed for a solid day of reef fishing in the Florida Keys.
Mycteroperca BonaciBlack Grouper are the heavyweights of our reefs - thick, powerful fish with dark blotches scattered across olive-gray bodies. Most run 20-30 inches, but the big ones can hit 40+ inches and really test your gear. They love ledges, wrecks, and coral heads in 30-200 feet, hanging close to structure where they can ambush prey. Winter months bring them shallower, making them easier targets. What makes them special is the combination of brute strength and excellent eating - firm, white meat that's restaurant quality. They're ambush predators that inhale their prey whole, so when you feel that thump, set the hook immediately. My advice: use heavy tackle with 80lb braid and get them up fast. Once hooked, they'll try to cut you off in the rocks, and sharks often follow them up looking for an easy meal.
Caranx HipposCrevalle Jack are the bullies of the reef - brassy green backs with golden sides and that signature yellow tail. Most run 12-24 inches and 3-5 pounds, but they fight like fish twice their size. You'll find them around structure and shallow reefs, often pushing baitfish to the surface while birds dive from above. They're year-round fish here, but spring and fall see the biggest schools. What makes them fun is pure aggression - they'll chase down fast-moving lures and give you a workout on light tackle. They're not great table fare, but the fight is what matters. Pro tip: when you see birds working, cast silver spoons past the school and retrieve fast. They can't resist the chase and you'll hook up quick.
Lutjanus SynagrisLane Snapper are like the appetizer of the reef - smaller than their cousins but packed with personality. They're pretty little fish with pink and yellow stripes running along their sides, usually running 10-14 inches. You'll find them around coral reefs and sandy areas with grass, typically in shallower water than other snappers. They're most active March through September during spawning season, and they bite well at night too. Guests enjoy them because they're scrappy little fighters and taste great fried whole - perfect pan size. They're not picky eaters and will hit live or cut bait readily. The trick with lanes is they're aggressive but smart - use small hooks and light leaders. Shrimp works best, and don't be surprised if you catch several once you find a school.
Lutjanus AnalisMutton Snapper are one of our prettiest reef fish - olive backs with that distinctive pink tinge and blue lines around the eyes. Most average 15-20 inches, but the big ones can push 30 inches and really bend the rod. They love hanging around coral heads and rocky bottom in 60-200 feet, often just off the main structure in the sand. Best fishing is spring through fall when they're more active. Guests love them because they fight harder than most snappers and make excellent table fare - sweet, firm meat that's hard to beat. They can be finicky though, so fresh bait is key. Here's the trick: use a knocker rig with fresh shrimp or squid, keep your weight light, and let it drift naturally in the current. Once you see that pink flash coming up, keep steady pressure.
5.0 out of 5.0Our original charter was canceled due to winds, but Harmony Charters saved the day! With a bigger boat, they agreed to take us out...
Marathon, FL